The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo – Book Review

Title: The Beatryce Prophecy Author: Kate DiCamillo Illustrator: Sophie Blackall Publisher: Candlewick Press Release Date: September 28, 2021

One morning Brother Edik, a monk in the Order of the Chronicles of Sorrowing, is tending to his chores when he discovers a young girl taking refuge in a barn stall. He decides to care for Beatryce and help her overcome a terrible fever. In the process, he discovers she has an ability that puts him, her, and everyone around her in danger. News of the king’s search for this girl sets Beatryce, Brother Edik, Answelica, a fierce, protective goat, and others on a fantastical journey, a journey with love leading the way.

The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo is exquisitely written, once again showcasing the author’s endless talent. The novel is a balanced blend of interesting characters, all cued and drawn as White, suspenseful conflict, and strong, unapologetic themes. The tale’s timelessness is best demonstrated by the medieval setting and how its events resonate through the ages, even today. Coupled with fantastic illustrations, the story comes alive, and readers will surely root on Beatryce as she does what no one has the courage to do: choose to trust love above all else. Overall, The Beatryce Prophecy is well-paced, but it ends rather abruptly, which may leave some readers unsatisfied and wanting more. Still, its relentless theme of love drives the novel forward in an engaging manner. Its lessons guide characters living in a dangerous, hopeless world, giving them what they need to answer the timeless question: “what world is this I now inhabit, and how shall I live in it?”

Educators will find plenty to love about The Beatryce Prophecy. Rich discussion, opportunities for historical connections and challenging themes provide ample avenues for exploration. In addition, the novel’s themes possess a staying power that will leave readers wanting to talk about their importance. In turn, there can be dialogue between young people and between young people and the novel, both of which will produce meaningful conversation about how those themes remain relevant as ever today.

Thank you to Edelweiss+ and publisher, Candlewick Press, for an eARC of this book.

Classroom Applications

• Cross-curricular Study – Teach the novel in conjunction with a History unit about life in the Middle Ages.
• Literature Circles – Use novel for small groups or choice reading with a variety of books that focus on the power of love or the power of stories.
• Book Club or Book Exchange – Share the novel with students that enjoy reading fantasy or historical fiction.

Nonfiction Connections

The list below outlines topics that will enrich your students’ understanding of the novel.

• History of Women’s Rights
• History of the Middle Ages

Book Companions

The following are great books to pair with The Beatryce Prophecy. In parenthesis are the specific aspects students could explore when synthesizing across the texts.

• The Boy, the Wolf, and the Stars by Shivaun Plozza (Character Connections, Themes)
• The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo (Character Connections, Themes)
• The Book of Boy by Catherine Gilbert Murdock (Character Connections, Nonfiction Connections, Themes)

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